Colourful cards designed by East Sussex primary school children are helping to brighten the lives of thousands of vulnerable residents.
As part of an East Sussex public health initiative to tackle loneliness and social isolation, 5,000 cards have been sent to those who have been shielding and self-isolating during the Covid-19 pandemic via community hubs, food banks and community and volunteer groups.
Around 150 designs were submitted by pupils from 12 primary schools across the county, with winning designs chosen by councillors, chairmen, councillor leaders and community hubs for each borough and district.
Darrell Gale, director of public health at East Sussex County Council, said: “Around 22,000 people in East Sussex had been asked to shield, 13,000 residents are registered with the hubs for support, and more than 5,000 people have been supported by the community hubs.
“We know that shielding has had a detrimental impact on the emotional and mental well-being including reports of increased loneliness and isolation. Often it is the little things that have a big impact, so we wanted people who may be feeling particularly vulnerable at this time to know that others are thinking of them by sending them the colourful cards with messages of hope and good will.”
The chosen design from Rother District Council came from Charlie, 9, from Icklesham Primary School and East Sussex Healthcare Trust (ESHT) selected the card designed by 10-year-old Millie from Chyngton School at Seaford to be printed and sent to hospital volunteers during volunteer week last month.
Vikki Carruth, ESHT director of nursing said: “The bright and vibrant design of the card was so uplifting and put a smile on the face of our valued ESHT volunteers. A massive thank you to all of the school children who submitted designs for the cards, and a special thank you to Millie.”
Rother District Council’s leader Councillor Doug Oliver said: “The restrictions put in place to slow the spread of Covid-19 has had an impact on us all, but for those who were already feeling isolated and lonely, these past months have been extremely difficult. We are extremely proud of all the children who took the time to create artwork to brighten the lives of the vulnerable members of their community.”
The children who designed the chosen cards have received a laminated copy of their artwork. To celebrate the efforts of all those who took part, copies of cards not selected have been posted on community noticeboards, in GP practices, local pharmacies, in local hospitals and in and around schools.
Source: East Sussex County Council
Image Credits: Charlie Moon .